Ammon News - Energy Minister Saleh Kharabsheh revealed Wednesday that 25 percent of Jordan's energy bill - amounting to hundreds of millions - is being wasted.

Speaking at an industrial efficiency forum in Amman, Kharabsheh emphasized the kingdom's focus on securing sustainable energy supplies at reasonable costs.

The forum, organized by the Jordan Chamber of Industry in partnership with USAID, highlighted the potential role of the chamber's new Energy and Environmental Sustainability Center in achieving these goals.

The ministry continues to work with various sectors, including households, to improve consumption efficiency.

Kharabsheh noted that time-of-use electricity tariffs offer industrial sectors opportunities to benefit from off-peak rates. He announced the program will expand to include hotels and healthcare facilities starting next year.

Hani Abu Hassan, Vice President of Jordan Chamber of Industry and head of Irbid Chamber of Industry, highlighted manufacturing's vital role in the national economy.

The sector contributes 25 percent of GDP and provides about 250,000 direct jobs, while industrial exports make up 90 percent of national exports.

Abu Hassan stressed that transitioning to a green economy "is no longer optional but essential" for accessing global markets, as many countries now require products to meet sustainability standards.

Ahmad Al-Bass, who heads the new Energy and Environmental Sustainability Center, announced its official launch.

The center will serve as the technical and executive arm for addressing environmental challenges in the industrial sector while coordinating with local chambers to implement sustainable solutions.

CEO of the Association of Banks in Jordan Maher Mahrouq called for direct and indirect incentives to encourage industrial investment in green technologies.

He emphasized the banking sector's pioneering role in supporting sustainable development through green bonds, loans, and other eco-friendly financing tools. Petra